You might have a Yorkie if you have these adorable Yorkie problems

A Yorkie isn't just a breed, it's a way of life. Ask anyone who's had the pleasure of owning the most popular toy dog breed in America.

It's kind of like skiing versus snowboarding. Some people love teeny, tiny dogs, and some people just don't get it. And most of those people who love the teensy-weensy dogs with the widdle faces and the adorable bows in their hair love them a lot, like a lot, and treat them like their children.

So what? A dog that's cuter than a human baby should be treated like one. A dog that will let you dress it up and comb its hair deserves to be spoiled rotten. If you're a member of the Yorkie fan club, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. There are a few things about these tiny pups that only Yorkie owners can understand.

1. The accessorizing

Blame it on small dog lovers like Jessica Simpson and Paris Hilton, but everyone knows that Yorkies belong in a matching purse — at least some of the time. How else are you going to carry your pup around and show it off to all your friends?

4. The catlike reflexes

Sweet little Yorkies are lighter on their feet than you've been led to believe. BoConcept employee Iris Tok, owner of the New York furniture store's unofficial mascot Max, says that Yorkies often act like cats. "Max loves to walk in slow motion, hunter-cat style," Tok explains.

5. The doggie smiles

Image: Iris Tok

If you don't think a dog can smile, then you haven't met a happy little Yorkie yet. Tok adds, "Max can smile! He greets customers with a unique smile."

6. The fashion

Don't pretend you haven't been shopping for tiny dog clothes online at 2 in the morning like every other Yorkie owner out there. Yorkies are the best kind of small dog to have because they love to dress up, and they look good doing it.

8. The hanging tongue

Look a little closer at that lovable Yorkie smile, and you may see something hanging out of its mouth. Nyong Atkins says most people don't realize that Yorkies are known for having bad teeth. That grinning pup sticking its tongue out at you probably just forgot to put in its dentures.

10. The jokes

Is that a Yorkie or an Ewok? Easy, killer! You couldn't find a smaller dog? Prepare to hear at least one million cliché Yorkie jokes during your first year of ownership, and don't forget to practice your fake laugh.

11. The lapping

If there's one thing small dogs are good for, besides living a life of cuteness, it's curling up like a hot little circle in your lap. Cherish these snuggles or use your pup for warmth on a cold day — it's all the same to your pooch.

12. The outbursts

Sleep like a baby for 22 hours a day and get carried everywhere you go, and you're bound to work up some energy. Don't be surprised when your Yorkie tears through the house and runs in circles, only to head back to bed.

13. The popularity

Just try to take one of the cutest dogs ever bred out on the street without someone stopping to pet it — I dare you. If you're running errands with your Yorkie in tow, allow at least 20 extra minutes for the paparazzi.